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Abstract
Fertilization with three controlled release nutrient formulations, Sierra 16-6-10 % Minors, High N 24-4-7, and Osmocote 17-7-12, and partial shade provided by mesh solar barriers were evaluated for their effects on establishment of bare root Jeffrey pine (Pinus jeffreyiGrev & Balf.) seedlings on an eastern Sierra Nevada reforestation site. The Osmocote formulation proved effective in stimulating seedling growth with little impairment of survival, particularly at a medium application rate of 20 g per seedling, although a low rate of 10 g and a high rate of 30 g were also effective. Growth responses to the Sierra and High N formulations were generally poor, and the high application rate of the latter induced excessive mortality. Foliar N, P, K, S, Fe, Zn, Cu, B, and Al varied significantly among fertility treatments, but enhanced N nutrition largely accounted for growth stimulation. Solar protection also increased growth, attributable to improved water relations as indicated by higher xylem water potentials, but was ineffectual in elevating seedling survival.